For more than 20 years Nikeesia and Larry Ranson have been assisting others in the care of their children, while raising their own three biological sons. So, it was no surprise to friends and family when they decided to become foster parents through Azleway in Tyler. However, this couple says their journey to adoption was not planned, but rather truly ordained by God.
“Bringing these seven into our life was truly His placement and it’s been a blessing for us and a blessing for them,” said Nikeesia, who goes by Nikki.
Nikki and Larry initially opened their home to three foster children in October 2012. They would quickly learn that those three brothers had more siblings, two more brothers and two sisters. They ranged in age from four to 17 years old. Seeing the unrest of not being together, this caring couple eventually brought all seven under one roof.
Larry shared, “I’m glad that we were chosen and I’m glad that we’ve been given the strength and the resolve and everything else that’s been needed to grow these children.”
As the children ran and played at the Children’s Park in Tyler it was evident, these siblings enjoy each other and are grateful for the opportunity to be together.
“Since the day they took me in I knew they would be there for me,” noted Tyriq, 17-years-old.
“I love my mom and dad,” added 6-year-old JaTara.
The Ranson family adopted all seven siblings in August 2015. The changes that have happened since are also nothing short of a miracle. Behavior problems, health issues and separation anxiety are now all gone!
Tyriq said, “It was a life-changing experience. The transition from where I was to where I am now has been a long ride.”
Tyriq is the oldest and being separated was perhaps hardest on him. With no father around, he had taken on the role himself.
“I prayed for everybody to be together and that everybody was safe and stable. Those prayers have now been answered and I can be a teenager again.”
Aamir is the middle child. He is 9 years old.
“It’s a happy family and I run around and play,” he said with a big smile. “My mom and dad take me to fun stuff and they give me yummy food.”
Jeffrey is the youngest. He is just 4 years old, but makes up for it in personality.
“They are nice and they let us eat good stuff, even pie!” he shouts.
Looking back, Nikki and Larry are thankful they were open to an unplanned adoption.
“I would encourage anyone that has an opportunity to be used. I mean everyone cannot foster and everyone cannot adopt, but everyone can do something,” acknowledged Nikki.
Larry added, “God has given us a heart of benevolence I guess and given me patience beyond what I ever would have imagined. And it’s been a ministry for us as well.”
They call it Devine intervention. The children call it a forever family they desperately needed together.
Tyriq proclaimed, “They are my parents! They look over me. They make sure food is in my stomach and cloths on my back. I love them to death!”
For Larry and Nikki, the days are full as well as every bed in their house, and now their hearts are overflowing too.
“It’s been wonderful. As much as we give to them they give to us,” beamed Larry.
“None of us are perfect, but together we are a perfect 10,” stated Nikki.
Ten children, all knit together and guided by loving parents who trusted God’s ordained assignment for their family.
With a desire to carry on God’s ministry of helping children, the Ranson’s started a non-profit organization in 2014 called SWAGG, which stands for Serenity, Wisdom Agility, Grace and Guidance. It assists more than 200 foster and homeless children a month with basis daily needs. For more information click here .
To learn more about becoming a foster parent or adopting a foster child call 903-533-4242 or email gsheridan@cbs19.tv.